My leadership learnings
I began my "formal" leadership journey just after COVID in 2020, as I looked for my what next. Since then I've read a few books, listened to a few podcasts, tried, failed, and succeeded. So here are the top ten things I've learnt so far, in no particular order.
Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you. Smarter people make you up your game. They make you smarter, which in turn makes you better.
Know what you don't know, and know how to fill that gap. Being aware of your gaps helps you understand what to ask and what to look out for.
We all have gut instinct, some better than others. Validate that feeling by asking questions and collecting data points, so you can make informed decisions. And sometimes you just have to back your gut instinct. Trust yourself.
Make yourself available and be present. It's an easy excuse to say you're busy. Make time for your people, and make sure you're present when you meet with them. Respect others' time by being present in your interactions, big or small.
Listen. Following on from being present is listening. Do less talking and listen to what's being said. Sometimes people just want to talk, and the best thing you can do is listen and ask "how can I help?" or "is there something you'd like me to do?" Resist the urge to solve it for them.
Enable and share in the success of those you lead. Help your people do their best by unblocking them, supporting them, and building a platform for them to succeed. When they succeed, share in it, this is about them, not you.
Relationships are one of the strongest tools a leader has. Building strong relationships and trust with those you lead means that trust is there when you need it. Would your team go to battle for you?
Show vulnerability. We all get it wrong sometimes. We don't always know everything about everything, and that's okay. Own it. Own your mistakes. It's okay to fail. It's not okay to fail at the same thing over and over.
Be clear on expectations, and always over-communicate. Assumptions can end in disaster. Make sure your expectations as a leader are clear to your team. Communication equals transparency equals trust.
Lead by example. Treat others like you want to be treated. Do the things you expect others to do.
I'm fortunate to have some great people around me. I've learnt a lot from their experience and knowledge, and I'll always be grateful for that. Thank you.
If you'd like to chat about any of these, drop me a line.